9 Tips for a Healthier Vacation

on March 11, 2015
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9 Tips for a Healthier Vacation

As warm weather approaches, it's difficult not to daydream about that new swimsuit you've been drooling over, crystal clear waters, and sand on your (colorfully painted) toes. That upcoming R&R is well-deserved and will do wonders for your stress levels-but it can also wreak havoc on your health, even long after the fun is over. Do some damage control by considering these simple tips for a getaway that'll send you home with happy memories instead of health issues and unwanted pounds!

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1. Stay hydrated.

This seems like a simple one, but drinking plenty of water is a must, especially if you're spending long days in the hot sun (even more especially if you'll partaking in poolside beers or cocktails!). It's surprisingly easy to become dehydrated during vacation, so keep a bottle of water with you at all times.

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2. Keep work away.

Trust us, we understand. These days, it's way more difficult than it should be to put away that iPhone. But the point of vacation is to eliminate stress, not add to it. For the sake of your mental health, try your hardest to resist the temptation to check your work email or call the office just once. Your companions and your co-workers will thank you for it.

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3. Wear shades

Besides making you instantly feel more glamorous, sunglasses also play an essential role in keeping you healthy. Just as the sun's UV rays can damage your skin, they can also harm the lens and cornea of your eyes. Regardless of whether you choose a pair that makes you feel like Audrey Hepburn, Tom Cruise, or Jackie O, you'll look fab and your eyes will be safe from harm.

 

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4. Skip the drive-thru.

On long road trips or while rushing through the airport, it's entirely too easy to grab fast food for the sake of pure convenience. Avoid the temptation by packing healthy snacks; they'll taste better, save you a lot of money, and keep your diet safely intact.

 

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5. See the sights (on foot or bike).

Many top vacation destinations offer tours that allow you to be active while still enjoying everything the area has to offer. Easily incorporate exercise into your week by booking a bike tour or planning a day hike instead of kicking back and relaxing on a boat or bus tour.

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6. Be wary of liquid calories.

Chances are you're going to be partaking in a few adult beverages. Don't get us wrong-that's completely fine! Just remember that common beach cocktails tend to be packed with liquid calories-a dieter's worst nightmare. A single piu00f1a colada can contain up to 780 calories, and an LIT often contains close to 800. Instead, opt for a skinny cocktail or simply stick to light beer and wine (those tiny bottles of Barefoot are easy to throw in a cooler, keep you honest about serving sizes, and only cost you about 100 calories a piece!).

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7. Protect your skin.

Do you really want leathery, wrinkly skin? You've heard it before, and we'll say it again: tanning is bad for you. And-much scarier than the threat of wrinkles-multiple studies that have demonstrated a relationship between UV exposure and an increased risk of developing skin cancer. If you absolutely must have that golden glow, use self-tanner (tanning salons often do free spray tans for first-time clients in the spring and summertime), then apply sunscreen generously.

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8. Get active.

One of the best parts of vacation is the opportunity to have some fun with your friends and family. Why not get active in the process? Activities like volleyball, surfing, swimming, and even that romantic walk down the beach at sunset can help you stay fit during your week of leisure.

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9. Take advantage of amenities.

Lots of hotels offer full gyms and group fitness classes that few people take advantage of-often because they don't know about them! When booking a place to stay, make sure to check out the amenities. You might find it easier to incorporate a quick workout every day if you know there's a treadmill right down the hall and a beach yoga class at 4:00 PM!